The knockout round in the FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to begin, with matches scheduled from June 28 to July 3. The expansion to 48 teams marks a notable change in the tournament’s format.
What happened
The knockout bracket of the FIFA World Cup 2026 is forming, with June 25 seeing several teams qualify for the next stage. The top two teams from each of the 12 groups, in addition to the eight best third-place teams, have progressed to the round of 32. This expansion from 16 to 32 teams marks a significant adjustment to the tournament format.
Mexico became the first team to advance after defeating South Korea 1-0 on June 18. The United States and Germany quickly followed suit, while Argentina secured its place thanks to a standout performance from Lionel Messi, who became the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer with 18 goals. Argentina qualified with a 2-0 victory over Austria.
Brazil, Norway, and Switzerland have also confirmed their advancement. South Africa achieved a historic milestone by reaching the knockout stage for the first time.
Why it matters
The knockout stage is critical for teams aiming for World Cup success, as only the top contenders advance. With teams like South Africa and the United States having experienced previous challenges, their performance in this round holds historical importance. The introduction of new tie-breaking rules adds strategic depth, as head-to-head records will play a central role.
Background
FIFA launched the 2026 tournament on May 27 across North America, featuring the largest number of teams and matches in history. Changes in the tournament format reflect a deliberate emphasis on inclusivity, promoting a more competitive atmosphere for nations to display their talent on the world stage.
What's next
The knockout rounds will start on June 28 and conclude with the final match on July 19. As nations vie for the prestigious trophy, fans will witness their favorite teams in high-stakes matches, adding to the excitement of the tournament.
Frequently asked questions
When will the knockout rounds start?
The knockout rounds will commence on June 28, 2026.
How many teams advance to the knockout stage?
A total of 32 teams advance to the knockout stage, including the top two from each group and the best third-place finishers.
Related coverage on CR Today
Sources
- CR Today — World Cup 2026 Round of 32 Taking Shape (accessed 2026-06-25)
